“As soon as it happens, it’ll be nice,” said Alexander. “Because it’s a nuisance, you know.”

A rat expert from Multnomah County Vector Control said people can call the department at 503-988-3464 if they think there is an infestation in their neighborhood.

Multnomah County Public Health Vector Specialist Chris Roberts said an inspector can come out and investigate. He said having rats on your property is a code violation, but inspectors try to work with tenants or property owners to take care of the problem, rather than punish them.

Roberts said rats come to an area in search of food, and the number one problem is bird food on the ground. Next, he said, is open compost bins or piles and suggests you put a lid on your bin. Third, he said, is pet food left outside.